Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, has released the following statement regarding the BC Coroners Service report on illicit drug toxicity deaths in August 2022:

Preliminary reporting released by the BC Coroners Service shows that the toxic drug supply claimed the lives of at least 169 British Columbians in August 2022, bringing the total number of lives lost in the calendar year to 1,468.

New rent supplements, transition workers and a no-limit earnings exemption will help youth from care make stronger transitions to adulthood.

People with substance-use challenges in Victoria, particularly those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, will benefit from extended life-saving services and supports.

British Columbia has appointed the first members of the Anti-Racism Data Committee, a key part of B.C.’s recently enacted Anti-Racism Data Act, focused on dismantling systemic racism in all provincial government programs and services.

Grace Lore, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity, has released the following statement in recognition of Equal Pay Day:  

The illicit drug supply in British Columbia continues to devastate communities throughout the province, with at least 192 lives lost to toxic substances in July, according to preliminary reporting released by the BC Coroners Service. 

British Columbia is well-positioned to support people through emerging global economic headwinds with preliminary numbers showing an improved fiscal forecast.